TIP: Use a low-fat or fat-free dressing to replace ones that are high in fat.

Step 2: Try eating dried fruit Eat dried fruit, such as mango, papaya, or dates in place of a sweet piece of candy.

Step 3: Sip on green tea Sip on green tea. The antioxidants in the tea help burn fat and speed up your metabolism.

TIP: Green tea also lowers your cholesterol.

Step 4: Sprinkle cinnamon Sprinkle a little cinnamon on your coffee, fruit, whole-grain toast, or oatmeal to help control your blood sugar. Studies show that 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon a day can lower cholesterol, blood sugar, and triglyceride levels in people with type 2 diabetes.

Step 5: Prepare a banana fruit smoothie Prepare a banana-fruit smoothie by blending blueberries, a banana, wheat germ, and water in a blender for 30 seconds. Full of antioxidants, this homemade treat has fewer calories than a canned or store-bought smoothie.

Step 6: Satisfy your sweet tooth Satisfy your sweet tooth by snacking on frozen blueberries, grapes, or bananas. Try this instead of ice cream or candy when you get a sweet craving. Train yourself to reach for something tasty and healthy, and it'll soon be second nature.

FACT: In 2010, experts estimated that Americans spent approximately $30 billion a year on slim-down products and programs.